TPWD Announces Temporary Opening Of Fairfield Lake State Park

Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) announces it will temporarily reopen Fairfield Lake State Park for free day-use-only visitation beginning March 14.

On Feb. 13, TPWD was given 120 days’ notice to vacate the property before it is turned over to the contracted buyer. TPWD closed the park on Feb. 28 to begin preparations for decommissioning the park.

Staff have already begun decommissioning the park but developed a plan for its temporary reopening after a Thursday meeting of the House Committee on Culture, Recreation & Tourism. Committee members including Chairman Trent Ashby suggested TPWD consider reopening the park, given its popularity and the economic benefit its visitors provide to Freestone County.

“Since closing the park in February, we have heard an outpouring from Texans who would love to visit their park,” said TPWD State Parks Director Rodney Franklin. “While we still stand committed to reaching a compromise that would save Fairfield Lake State Park for future use, our team will be working hard to keep this gem as accessible as possible for as long as possible.”

Beginning 8 a.m. Tuesday, March 14, TPWD will provide free day-use-only visitation on a first-come, first-served basis until the park reaches daily capacity. No overnight stays available during this time. Reservations will not be accepted or required.

“We know that Fairfield Lake State Park is a beloved treasure in a rapidly growing part of the state,” said TPWD Executive Director David Yoskowitz, Ph.D. “We were heartened to hear the Committee’s support for saving the park and see this as the essence of our mission, managing the natural and cultural resources of Texas for use and enjoyment.”

“With the dogwoods blooming and the bass biting, spring is an especially vibrant time to visit Fairfield Lake State Park,” said Texas Parks and Wildlife Commission Chairman Arch “Beaver” Aplin III. “I look forward to continuing my conversation with Vistra and Todd Interests to preserve both the park and Fairfield Lake for future enjoyment, but for now I applaud our TPWD staff for their dedication, creativity and flexibility in keeping the gates open. Many Texans will benefit from the continued use of this cherished resource.”